Algerian PM: We will not intervene militarily in Libya

Algerian military intervention in Libya is unlikely and would not be a solution to the crisis, Prime Minister Abdelmalek Sellal said yesterday, stressing his country’s rejection of any foreign intervention across its borders.

Sellal’s comments, broadcasted on state television, on the sidelines of the African-American summit, came in response to a question on what has been discussed in this regard.

The prime minister added: “Sending troops to restore order is not a solution, and cannot be a solution. And in any cases, the Algerian constitution is clear on this type of situation, as it prohibits our troops from crossing our borders.”

Article 26 of the Algerian Constitution states: “Algeria shall not resort to war to attack the legitimate sovereignty and the liberty of other peoples. It shall endeavour to settle international differences by peaceful means.”

Sellal explained: “We must create harmony in order to form a government and institutions that are capable of leading the country.”

“Our vision is clear on this issue, we do not accept foreign intervention on our borders, as we prefer a territorial settlement, and the Libyan issue remains very difficult because the country does not have an army or police available to restore order.”

An Algerian diplomatic source told the Anadolu news agency on Monday that his country rejected an offer made ​​by the Libyan parties that supports a military intervention in Libya under Arab/UN cover.